Zespri’s CEO Lain Jager and Director Bruce Cameron, along with the Zespri team, invited local media and the Newport Beach Mayor to celebrate the opening of their North American headquarters in Newport Beach with a traditional Maori Ceremony. Zespri was pleased to also host the New Zealand Ambassador to the United States, the honorable Tim Groser, and other distinguished industry representatives from New Zealand to join the celebration.
“The traditional Maori ceremony originates from New Zealand’s indigenous people,” explains Ben Hughes, Zespri’s regional market manager for the Americas. “Our guests were able to view prayers and blessings of the wooden carving, unveiled by James Tapiata. He explained the cultural significance and symbolism of the carving.”
Newport Beach City Mayor Kevin Muldoon welcomed Zespri to Newport Beach and presented them with the Newport Beach City Proclamation during the traditional Maori ceremony.
The Maori carving represents the prosperity and growth of the Zespri office and kiwifruit. The Delegation of Maori growers came from New Zealand to help bless the new office. Since opening its office, Zespri has made great strides in the U.S. market with the new SunGold variety driving the growth. Zespri’s market development managers, that work directly with key retailers, have helped expand distribution across the country, which has provided more value returned to the New Zealand growers.
The ceremony came to a close with Newport Beach City Mayor Kevin Muldoon presenting Zespri with the Newport Beach City Proclamation. The New Zealand Ambassador to the U.S. highlighted Zespri’s global success, the importance of free trade, and the amazing opportunity the U.S. offers.
Contact:
Jill Netzel
Fusion Marketing
Tel: (818) 718-8084 ext. 212